Synonyms: German Measles Specific IgM

IGM = past infection

NOTICE: This is a component of the Antibody Screen (Coombs Indirect) panel which may be more appealing than ordering this test alone.

Why It Is Done

To determine if you have sufficient rubella antibodies to protect you from the rubella virus; to verify a past infection or detect a recent infection

Test Overview

This test measures the presence of rubella antibodies in the blood. Antibodies are proteins that the body creates in response to an infection or exposure to a microorganism or other foreign substance. Rubella antibodies are produced in response to an infection by the rubella virus. There are two types of rubella antibodies: IgM (short-term) and IgG (long-term).

How To Prepare

No special preparation is necessary